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Iowa's Tennis Oasis

In the shadow of wind turbines, an improbable grass court draws tennis fans from around the country.

All Iowa Lawn Tennis Club.

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When it comes to the All Iowa lawn Tennis Club, it’s best to get the Field of Dreams similarities out of the way early. An Iowa farm. A man with a passion. A supportive wife. Curious travelers who come from afar to see this creation nestled amid cornfields. The only thing that’s different is the ball (and the ghosts).

As a kid, Mark Kuhn fell in love with grass-court tennis listening to Wimbledon radio broadcasts from the All England Lawn Tennis Club each summer. In 2003, after years of dreaming and researching, he opened his backyard court near Charles City, Iowa (150 miles northeast of Des Moines). Anyone can visit Memorial Day through Labor Day and hit a few games for free. The Kuhns loan new or vintage rackets, and when their berry patch cooperates, they even serve Wimbledon’s legendary courtside snack: strawberries and cream. Reservations suggested. alliowalawntennisclub.com